All these acquisitions share one thing in common: the promise of "efficiencies and synergies." Hence, layoffs. With each announcement of axing thousands of people – thousands are definitely better than hundreds – the stock price goes up.

Conventional electricity generation is the largest source of water use in most countries. Water is used to cool power plants to keep them functional. Most power utilities don't even record the amount of water they use.

'Nightmare bacteria' spread in SoutheastSuperbugs known as CRE — called "nightmare bacteria" by federal health officials because they are deadly and virtually untreatable — are skyrocketing in the Southeastern USA, new research shows. Experts fear a growing national problem, and some say the spread of such superbugs may portend a "post-antibiotic era."

Chinese cable television channel hackedHundreds of thousands of viewers in the eastern Chinese city of Wenzhou have their Friday night viewing disrupted with images of tortured prisoners after hackers take over cable television channel

Harley Recalls Bikes for Ignition Switch ProblemIgnition switch problems that have plagued General Motors and Chrysler have now turned up in the motorcycle business. Harley-Davidson is recalling more than 4,500 FXDL Dyna Low Rider bikes worldwide because engine vibration can turn the switches from "on" to "accessory."

I told you so I told you so I told you so. Already cracks are appearing in the facade, and work hasn't even started yet. Of course there will never be enough money. What's more, the government won't be co-financing this boondoggle because it's flat broke and its fiscal situation will only continue to worsen with time. Long-time readers know I have stated repeatedly and unequivocally that although construction might start, the project will be abandoned due to the inevitable ballooning costs and deteriorating economy. -- RF